Approximately 6,000 Canadian Autistic youth become adults each year, yet many do not graduate from post-secondary and often feel disconnected from campus life. At the same time, “we are lacking up-to-date data on the prevalence and context of autism within the Canadian post-secondary education system … [which makes it] challenging to adequately understand what supports are needed for Canadian Autistic students” (Ames et al., 2022, p. 6). Accordingly, Autistic post-secondary students face many barriers which are not yet well understood or addressed.
Drawing on a participatory action approach based in a critical disability orientation, this project will identify facilitators and barriers to autistic PS students’ sense of belonging on campus i.e., “the extent to which students feel personally accepted, respected, included, and supported by others in the school environment” (Goodenow & Grady, 1993, p. 60).
OUR RESEARCH QUESTIONS
Phase 1 of this study aims to develop and refine ‘on the ground’ guidelines and strategies for enhancing autistic PS students’ sense of belonging.
Phase 2 aims to promote social mobilization by (first) building empathy in PS staff; (second) by identifying institutional practices (‘bright spots’) that have promoted belonging and success for autistic PS students in Canada; and (third) by recommending enhanced strategies and practice-based policies that advance inclusion, a sense of belonging and accessibility.
The Campus Belonging Network is a large and diverse team consisting of neurodivergent and neurotypical members including faculty, staff, students and community members
Engaging autistic individuals as co-researchers is crucial to ensuring that autism research focuses on 'issues of immediate practical concern' to improve autistic well-being, as defined by them'
(Pellicano et al., 2014) . We are committed to:
ACPs receive support & training in
Research processes
Research ethics
Qualitative interviewing
Our research practices are deeply enriched by these perspectives, ensuring that the narrative we craft through our research resonates with and earns the pride and belief of the autistic community
Our project aims to have an immediate and sustained impact on the ability of Canadian PS institutions by increasing the effectiveness of their practice, programs, and policy through our depth and breadth of exploration; our strong focus on capturing autistic and staff perspectives on fostering belonging; and its participatory co-design approach that seeks connect this work with a clear course of action.
We will mobilize the knowledge created by the Campus Belonging Network to reach:
References
The University of Alberta is located in ᐊᒥᐢᑿᒌᐚᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ (Amiskwacîwâskahikan) on Treaty 6 territory. We recognize and respect the history, languages, and cultures of the First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our institution.
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